Wembanyama Day-to-Day With Rib Contusion — Needs One 20-Minute Game for MVP Eligibility

Victor Wembanyama dodged a bullet. Tests on Tuesday confirmed the left rib contusion he suffered against the 76ers isn't serious, and the Spurs are calling him day-to-day.

Here's where it gets interesting: Wemby only logged 15 minutes before leaving the game, which means he's already used up his two allowed sub-20-minute games this season. The NBA requires players to appear in at least 65 games with 20+ minutes to qualify for postseason awards like MVP, DPOY, and All-NBA.

The Spurs have three games left. San Antonio has "confidence" Wemby will suit up for at least one — and that's all he needs. He's listed as doubtful for Thursday's game against Portland, but the expectation is he'll return later in the week. For a player averaging 25.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks, missing awards eligibility over a rib bruise would be one of the most painful what-ifs in recent memory.